And while working at Norwich’s hotel school, Anne Simpson travelled the county supporting young apprentices in gaining qualifications to launch their careers in the industry.

Diagnosed with cancer six years ago, the 65-year-old, of Spexhall near Halesworth, continued to return to work in between her many treatments.

She’ll be remembered for her many accomplishments, but the phrase “happy pixie time” is a saying that will ring in the ears of those who knew her for years to come.

It was her rallying cry of happiness and positivity.

Anne Simpson, a long-serving and popular lecturer at City College Norwich has died aged 65 (Image: Supplied) Born in Londonderry in Northern Ireland on May 2, 1959, her loved ones described her as “a bit of a tomboy” who, as a child, would prefer to play football rather than play with dolls.

During the late 1970s and early 1980s, she played for the City of Derry ladies hockey club.

After moving to England, she enjoyed a fulfilling career, including becoming general manager of Adnams-owned pub and hotel the Crown in

© Norwich Evening News